Missouri’s top-earning casinos are gearing up for a sports betting boom, teaming up with Fanatics and ESPN Bet to launch retail sportsbooks. This move comes as the state prepares for its full sports betting rollout on December 1, 2025, promising exciting action for fans and big revenue boosts. But what does this mean for gamblers and the local economy? Dive in to find out.
Top Casinos Lead the Charge in Sports Betting
Missouri’s highest-grossing casinos are set to host retail sportsbooks from Fanatics and ESPN Bet, marking a major step in the state’s new gambling landscape. The Ameristar St. Charles, River City Casino, Hollywood Casino, and Ameristar Kansas City topped the revenue charts in the 2025 fiscal year. Together, these four spots pulled in more money than the state’s other nine casinos combined.
This partnership highlights how big players are jumping into Missouri’s sports betting market. Boyd Gaming, which runs the two Ameristar casinos, has linked up with Fanatics for both retail and online betting options. On the other side, PENN Entertainment, operator of River City and Hollywood, is bringing in ESPN Bet to handle their sportsbooks.
These deals were announced in August 2025, just months before the state’s official launch. Fans can expect in-person betting at these prime locations, serving key areas like St. Louis and Kansas City.
The push follows Missouri’s approval of sports betting earlier this year, opening doors for mobile and retail operations. Regulators have greenlit applications from several operators, with Fanatics and ESPN Bet securing spots through these casino ties.
Revenue Powerhouses Drive the Deals
Why focus on these top casinos? Their massive earnings make them ideal partners for sports betting giants. In fiscal year 2025, Ameristar St. Charles led with the highest revenue, followed closely by River City, Hollywood, and Ameristar Kansas City.
Data from the Missouri Gaming Commission shows these four casinos generated over half of the state’s total casino revenue. For example, Ameristar St. Charles alone brought in millions more than smaller spots like Mark Twain Casino.
Boyd Gaming’s alliance with Fanatics aims to tap into this cash flow. The partnership includes plans for two retail sportsbooks at the Ameristar sites, plus statewide online access. Fanatics, known for its sports merchandise empire, entered the betting scene with a bang, acquiring assets to build a strong presence.
PENN’s move with ESPN Bet follows a similar path. The company posted job openings for sportsbook managers at its Missouri properties back in August 2025, signaling preparations for launches at River City and Hollywood.
This isn’t just about adding betting kiosks. These sportsbooks will feature live odds, viewing areas, and promotions tied to major events like NFL games.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the top casinos and their partners:
- Ameristar St. Charles: Fanatics (Boyd Gaming)
- River City Casino: ESPN Bet (PENN)
- Hollywood Casino: ESPN Bet (PENN)
- Ameristar Kansas City: Fanatics (Boyd Gaming)
These spots are strategically placed near population centers, drawing in locals and tourists alike.
How Partnerships Shape Missouri’s Betting Future
The collaborations between casinos and betting brands like Fanatics and ESPN Bet are reshaping Missouri’s gambling scene. Fanatics announced its deal with Boyd Gaming on August 25, 2025, aiming for a strong foothold in the Midwest market.
ESPN Bet, backed by PENN, is expanding rapidly after its rebrand from Barstool Sportsbook. In Missouri, it will operate at three PENN casinos, including River City and Hollywood, with job postings confirming retail setups.
This setup could boost state revenue through taxes on betting handle. Missouri’s law imposes a 10% tax on sports wagering revenue, expected to generate millions for education and other programs. Analysts predict the market could hit $500 million in annual handle within the first few years, based on trends in nearby states like Illinois and Kansas.
For bettors, it means more choices. Retail sportsbooks at these high-revenue casinos will offer a mix of slots, tables, and now sports wagering under one roof.
Challenges remain, though. Regulators awarded untethered licenses to DraftKings and Circa in August 2025, leaving giants like FanDuel to seek casino partnerships. Fanatics beat the competition by aligning with Boyd early.
Local economies stand to gain too. Increased foot traffic at these casinos could create jobs and spur tourism.
Impact on Gamblers and the Broader Economy
Picture walking into Ameristar Kansas City and placing a bet on the Chiefs while grabbing a drink. That’s the vision these partnerships promise starting December 1.
For everyday gamblers, this brings convenience and excitement right to familiar spots. No more crossing state lines to bet legally. Instead, Missouri residents can wager on college games, pro sports, and more at these top venues.
Economically, the deals could pump new life into the casino industry. The 2025 fiscal year data revealed stark differences: top casinos thrived while smaller ones lagged. By adding sportsbooks, operators hope to attract younger crowds who prefer betting apps and in-person experiences.
A study by the American Gaming Association in 2024 showed that states with legal sports betting saw a 20% uptick in casino visits. Missouri could follow suit, with Fanatics and ESPN Bet drawing in fans through promotions and loyalty programs.
One potential downside? Responsible gambling concerns. Officials are rolling out tools like self-exclusion lists to address addiction risks.
Still, the buzz is building. Other operators like BetMGM and Caesars have secured spots too, but the Fanatics and ESPN Bet tie-ups with top earners steal the spotlight.
| Casino | Operator | Sportsbook Partner | 2025 Revenue Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ameristar St. Charles | Boyd Gaming | Fanatics | 1 |
| River City Casino | PENN | ESPN Bet | 2 |
| Hollywood Casino | PENN | ESPN Bet | 3 |
| Ameristar Kansas City | Boyd Gaming | Fanatics | 4 |
This table underscores why these casinos are prime for sports betting growth.
Missouri’s dive into sports betting through these powerhouse casino partnerships with Fanatics and ESPN Bet signals a thrilling era for fans, promising easy access, economic boosts, and fresh revenue streams that could transform local communities. It’s a win for gamblers seeking action close to home and for the state eyeing tax dollars for schools and infrastructure.
